ByMultiple Authors
Updated:
Mar 18, 2025Table of contents
Patagonia Storm Shift ($399)
Patagonia Insulated Powder Town ($269)
REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated ($159)
Arc’teryx Sabre ($600)
Outdoor Research Skytour Bibs ($429)
Patagonia Insulated Powder Town ($269)
Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft Insulated ($375)
Trew Gear Trewth Bib Primo ($519)
Norrøna Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro ($649)
The Storm Shift is a premium Gore-Tex pant for resort skiers, with a durable yet flexible shell fabric, soft liner, large pockets, and super refined fit. Two-layer pants don’t always exude quality, but Patagonia's A-list offering is about as good as it gets.
The Storm Shift is a premium Gore-Tex pant for resort skiers, with a durable yet flexible shell fabric, soft liner, large pockets, and super refined fit. Two-layer pants don’t always exude quality, but Patagonia's A-list offering is about as good as it gets.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer Gore-Tex
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
150D polyester
Pros
Cons
Patagonia’s most premium resort-pant offering, the Storm Shift pants top just about every category. They’re built to keep out the worst winter weather, with a high-end Gore-Tex membrane, full seam taping, coated zippers, and a thick 150-denier polyester shell fabric. Yet despite the hefty construction, the Storm Shift fits impressively well and uses hidden velcro tabs to dial in adjustability at the waist. Although not everyone will love the hanging mesh liner, it helps to wick moisture and adds a bit of insulation against cold chairlift seats (and its tight weave feels more premium than most mesh linings). Finally, the Storm Shift pants are among the most sustainably built offerings in Patagonia’s lineup, with a PFC-free membrane and DWR finish and 100% recycled fabrics.
It’s a highlight reel of goodness here, and the Storm Shift pants are one of our top recommendations for resort skiers. Simply put, they feel much more high-end than most 2-layer pants on the market, and it’s rare to find Gore-Tex construction at this price point. Still, for roughly the same cost, you could opt for a 3-layer shell pant instead, which would be more versatile for both resort and backcountry days. Also noteworthy: Patagonia chose to cover the thigh pocket zippers with flaps rather than using coated zippers, which slightly detracts from the pant’s technical vibe. For more, read our review of the Storm Shift.
Appealing to the backcountry crowd, these pants are noticeably lightweight and flexible and have several touring-oriented features, including a low-profile waist belt and a dedicated avy-beacon pocket. But the build quality is a slight step down from premium brands.
Appealing to the backcountry crowd, these pants are noticeably lightweight and flexible and have several touring-oriented features, including a low-profile waist belt and a dedicated avy-beacon pocket. But the build quality is a slight step down from premium brands.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort & backcountry
Waterproofing
3-layer BD.dry
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
Stretch nylon
Pros
Cons
Originally a climbing company, Black Diamond has long held appeal amongst the backcountry crowd and offers an affordable alternative to premium brands like Arc’teryx and Norrøna. Their Recon Stretch Pant was a favorite amongst our testers, thanks to its simple yet functional design, soft and stretchy material, and reliable waterproofing (“the chairlift couldn’t have been wetter and the pants stayed dry”).
In addition to working well for resort skiing, the pants provide great freedom of movement for uphill travel, along with a dedicated backcountry-oriented feature set. The waistband is streamlined down to a small cam-strap buckle (no bulky velcro straps creating pressure points underneath a backpack) and the thigh pockets are a true breath of fresh air: Both are absolutely humongous, and the right-hand one expands to accommodate an avalanche beacon and includes a tether and padded sleeve.
Overall, the Recon Stretch is one of the best hardshell pants we’ve tested for backcountry travel, and its fit is ideal for both uphill and downhill travel, too—not too trim and not too relaxed. But there are a few downsides. The 12-inch thigh vents could be a bit longer, and it’s easy to lose one side of the built-in belt to the recesses of the waistband when it’s not clasped (it’s a huge pain to tease back out). What’s more, we’d be curious to see how the relatively thin fabric holds up while ‘schwacking through our beloved PNW forests during spring volcano season, although the added elastane would surely offer a nice bit of mobility (that said, we did put a small hole in the matching jacket after only a few days of use). Finally, the Recon Stretch doesn’t feature the mic-drop brand cachet of Gore-Tex and the build quality is a slight step down from truly high-end products, but at just $400, the value is hard to beat. For more, read our Recon Stretch review.
Patagonia’s mid-range insulated resort pants strike a nice balance: They’re warm but not too bulky, protective yet still soft and flexible, and both high-quality and affordable. But their construction is on the thin side and the H2No membrane isn’t as robust as Gore-Tex.
Patagonia’s mid-range insulated resort pants strike a nice balance: They’re warm but not too bulky, protective yet still soft and flexible, and both high-quality and affordable. But their construction is on the thin side and the H2No membrane isn’t as robust as Gore-Tex.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer H2No
Insulation
60g synthetic
Fabric
75D polyester
Pros
Cons
If you’re looking for simple insulated resort pants that are a step up in quality from entry-level designs, check out the Patagonia Insulated Powder Town Pants. These pants check all the boxes most resort skiers need. The fit is excellent and hidden velcro tabs at the waist keep the pants snug without the need for a belt; four pockets (two at the hip and two at the thigh) provide ample storage without pressure points; and mesh-lined vents on the outer thighs can be opened up to dump heat without letting in errant snow.
Our resort tester thought the Insulated Powder Town Pants provided just the right amount of warmth—enough to protect her legs from the chill, but not so much that she overheated on sunny spring days. She also appreciated the lightweight and mobile construction: Patagonia’s in-house H2No is more flexible and breathable than Gore-Tex, and the relatively thin 75-denier polyester shell is softer and more pliable than most nylon ski pants. The flipside to this is that the Powder Town Pants aren’t quite as confidence-inspiring in wet snow, and they won’t hold up to hard use as well as thicker designs. But if you only get out in sub-freezing temperatures and aren’t too hard on your gear, you’re unlikely to experience these downsides. For more, read our review of the Insulated Powder Town.
The Legendary is Helly Hansen's budget pant that’s warm enough, waterproof enough, and stylish enough for most casual skiers. They’re also softer and more supple than most ski pants, but are not a super durable choice for heavy use.
The Legendary is Helly Hansen's budget pant that’s warm enough, waterproof enough, and stylish enough for most casual skiers. They’re also softer and more supple than most ski pants, but are not a super durable choice for heavy use.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer Helly Tech Performance
Insulation
60g synthetic
Fabric
Polyester
Pros
Cons
The name says it all: The Helly Hansen Legendary Pants are nothing short of iconic. These pants have been a best-selling model for years running, beloved for their reliable performance at a reasonable price point. They offer enough warmth to cut the chill (with PrimaLoft insulation at the rear and the knees) and will keep you dry in most winter conditions. And with a two-way stretch shell fabric and a cozy taffeta liner, they’re easy to wear and have better mobility than most alternatives. Finally, the Legendary’s fit is on the trim side, which is a nice change of pace compared to baggy and more generic-fitting budget pants.
There are some notable drawbacks to the Legendary's budget design. For one, the Legendary’s Helly Tech Performance membrane is Helly Hansen’s cheapest waterproofing and falls far short of Gore-Tex in terms of breathability and weather protection. The pants also use a relatively thin shell fabric, which won’t hold up well to the rigors of resort use as well as burlier designs. And in general, the build quality isn’t very inspiring, with some loose stitching and short, 7-inch inner thigh vents that aren't all that functional in terms of dumping heat (they’re also lined with mesh). All in all, the Legendary pants are a great budget pick for casual skiers who get out just a few times a year and generally in cold and dry weather, but with heavy use and in marginal conditions, they'll begin to show their weakness. For more, read our review of the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated.
Backcountry skiers will be hard-pressed to find a more purpose-built bib. We wouldn’t push the Skytour in wet conditions and it’s not particularly durable for the resort, but the stretchy shell and softshell bib offer ideal mobility and breathability for uphill travel. It's also a great value at just $429.
Backcountry skiers will be hard-pressed to find a more purpose-built bib. We wouldn’t push the Skytour in wet conditions and it’s not particularly durable for the resort, but the stretchy shell and softshell bib offer ideal mobility and breathability for uphill travel. It's also a great value at just $429.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Backcountry
Waterproofing
3-layer AscentShell
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
40D x 65D stretch nylon
Pros
Cons
It often feels like backcountry skiers fall into one of two camps: Those who like to go light and fast with breathable softshell pants, and those who prefer a more relaxed pace, enveloped in a pair of bibs. (Of course, this is largely dependent on conditions, too.) Specifically designed for the demands of backcountry travel, the Outdoor Research Skytour finds a really nice middle ground, with the confidence-inspiring protection of a bib paired with stretchy, breathable fabrics throughout.
The Skytour is designed to breathe: From the waist up, you get true-blue softshell material and a mesh back that keeps air flowing. Below the belt, the construction features OR’s breathable AscentShell membrane laminated to a svelte and stretchy nylon shell fabric and lined with a thin knit backer that wicks moisture and feels soft next to the skin. The end result is a thoughtfully built backcountry bib that excels in cold and dry conditions. But because the fabrics aren’t exceptionally durable and prioritize breathability over all-out weatherproofing, we wouldn’t push it too hard in wet conditions or recommend it as a daily driver at the resort.
Our tester loved the Skytour Bibs, citing them as one of the rare pieces of review gear she’s actually integrated into her daily kit. She did think the chest pocket was an odd place for a beacon, preferring to store her transceiver closer to her stomach or thighs instead, but found the drop seat easy to use for backcountry bathroom breaks. The thin and stretchy fabric moved with her and dumped heat efficiently during uphill travel. All told, the Skytour Bibs have a very purpose-built design and should be at the top of the list for backcountry skiers who like above-the-belt protection.
A staple in TNF's lineup, the Freedom is a solid budget-friendly option. You won't find flashy features or style here, but the pant delivers decent warmth, weather protection, and durability for casual resort skiers. However, not everyone will want such an insulated pant.
A staple in TNF's lineup, the Freedom is a solid budget-friendly option. You won't find flashy features or style here, but the pant delivers decent warmth, weather protection, and durability for casual resort skiers. However, not everyone will want such an insulated pant.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer DryVent
Insulation
60g synthetic
Fabric
160D x 140D nylon
Pros
Cons
If you’re a new skier or you only plan on getting out a few times a season, you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on ski pants. This is especially true if your ski trips take you to the Rockies or the Tetons, where temperatures are generally low enough to keep the snow cold and dry (budget waterproof membranes are easily overwhelmed in sustained wet conditions). Of all the entry-level ski pants out there, The North Face’s Freedom Insulated is one of the most popular choices: It offers decent performance for casual use, it’s comfortable and easy moving, and comes in a wide range of colors and sizes. And many skiers will love showcasing the TNF logo, which is proudly displayed on the pants’ thigh and calf.
But there are some obvious sacrifices you make with the Freedom pants. Our tester found the fit to be very roomy (this is the rare pant that you might want to size down), and the legs ballooned out awkwardly underneath his cinched-down Velcro waist adjustments. Storage is also compromised: You get just two relatively shallow-zippered hand pockets and one cargo pocket that closes via a Velcro flap—neither of which is a great place to securely store a phone. And finally, the inner thigh vents are small and do little to release heat, although the zippers do slide easily. But with a recent price drop (down from $220) the Freedom Insulated is a great value and an easy choice for the occasional resort skier. For more, read our review of the Freedom Insulated.
The Trewth (women's Chariot) is a stylish, relaxed bib that’s available in 27 sizes and a variety of playful colors. The thick shell fabric has a tendency to wet through and not everyone will appreciate the stiff build, but it's a durable and stormproof pairing for resort skiers.
The Trewth (women's Chariot) is a stylish, relaxed bib that’s available in 27 sizes and a variety of playful colors. The thick shell fabric has a tendency to wet through and not everyone will appreciate the stiff build, but it's a durable and stormproof pairing for resort skiers.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
3-layer Primo
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
160D x 81D nylon
Pros
Cons
From its humble beginnings in a Hood River, Oregon garage, Trew Gear has maintained a steady focus on creating premium outerwear with really good vibes. Not only are their offerings super fun, but we’ve also been impressed with their build quality, from the clean stitching to the coated zippers, playful logo placement, and thoughtful feature sets.
One of the highest quality and most popular offerings in their collection, the Trewth Bib Primo (and women's Chariot Bib Primo) features Trew’s in-house 3-layer Primo waterproof membrane and a very burly shell fabric that’s clearly built for protection and durability (over mobility and breathability). Paired with a generously sized and protective bib upper, they’re undeniably a whole lotta bib—although this could be great news for resort skiers who like feeling fully protected from whatever Mother Nature doles out. We did notice that the shell fabric soaks up moisture during sustained wet weather, but the Primo membrane did its job and our clothing underneath always remained dry.
In terms of features, the Trewth is fully loaded, with well-thought-out storage, durable scuff guards at the cuffs, and long outer thigh zippers for ventilation. We’ve noticed that the suspender clips have a tendency to slip, which leads to a lot of fiddling throughout the day. Finally, the women’s version that we tested includes a much-loved drop seat for bathroom breaks and internal thigh vents.
In true Arc’teryx fashion, these pants exude quality from hip to toe. The premium 3-layer Gore-Tex construction offers breathable waterproof protection for everything from storm days at the resort to high-octane skin track sessions. But buyer beware: the fit doesn’t work for everyone.
In true Arc’teryx fashion, these pants exude quality from hip to toe. The premium 3-layer Gore-Tex construction offers breathable waterproof protection for everything from storm days at the resort to high-octane skin track sessions. But buyer beware: the fit doesn’t work for everyone.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort & backcountry
Waterproofing
3-layer Gore-Tex
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
80D nylon
Pros
Cons
All hail the Arc’teryx Sabre (and women’s Sentinel) ski pants—one of the most loved and best-performing pants on the slopes. With a reliable Gore-Tex membrane, soft liner, and durable 80-denier shell, the Sabre is a durable and weatherproof pairing for avid skiers and burly storm days. Most backcountry tourers will find them suitable for uphill travel, too, thanks to the breathable 3-layer construction and generous outer thigh vents. The small downside to this versatility is that the Sabre isn’t as durable as some might like for the resort, and some backcountry skiers might find the pants to be overkill for the skin track.
The Sabre’s build quality is near perfect, and it’s clear that Arc’teryx has put a lot of time and thought into these pants. Yet they can’t seem to nail the fit. Fit is always subjective and it’s tough for one piece of apparel to work for every skier’s body type, but many users agree that the Sabre has a particularly short rise (the distance between the crotch and the waistband) that renders them uncomfortable or even unwearable. But with three available inseam lengths, a patient shopper should be able to find a size that works; for what it’s worth, our tester (who is quite lean) loved the fit, although he did have to employ the built-in belt to secure them above his hips. For more, see our review of the Arc'teryx Sabre Pant.
The Snowcrew falls on the high side of a budget price point; it's a unique middle ground among insulated pants, with lightweight fill placed only at the rear and knees. A slightly stretchy, softshell-like fabric keeps things mobile and comfortable.
The Snowcrew falls on the high side of a budget price point; it's a unique middle ground among insulated pants, with lightweight fill placed only at the rear and knees. A slightly stretchy, softshell-like fabric keeps things mobile and comfortable.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer Ventia
Insulation
45g synthetic
Fabric
75D x 150D polyester
Pros
Cons
Outdoor Research is a core outdoor brand, known for functional designs, mid-range quality, and very fair price points. The Snowcrew Pant is their resort-specific offering, but takes a slightly different route than many insulated pants. Rather than the standard 60-gram insulation, it features a lightweight 45-gram fill only above the knees and caps it off with a plain-weave polyester shell fabric that has a slight softshell-like feel. As a result, the Snowcrew isn’t as warm as similar alternatives, but it has excellent mobility and breathability for its 2-layer construction, while still cutting most of the chill.
At $229, the Snowcrew Pants fall on the high side of the budget spectrum, but they have the build quality to back it up. And unlike true budget pants, the Snowcrew features fully taped seams. The inner thigh vents and non-coated zippers, however, have an entry-level feel, and we wouldn’t want to push these pants in super wet conditions, given their plain-weave shell and in-house Ventia membrane.
Offering the look and feel (and most of the performance) of Gore-Tex without the inflated price tag, the Chemical is reliably waterproof and has four vents to keep air flowing. Its fit is noticeably relaxed. But compared to pricier pants, the build quality falls short.
Offering the look and feel (and most of the performance) of Gore-Tex without the inflated price tag, the Chemical is reliably waterproof and has four vents to keep air flowing. Its fit is noticeably relaxed. But compared to pricier pants, the build quality falls short.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort & backcountry
Waterproofing
3-layer Surface
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
150D oxford weave
Pros
Cons
Most 3-layer hardshell pants will run you north of $500, but not Flylow’s Chemical (and women’s Donna). For just $365, the Chemical is a reliably waterproof ski pant thanks to Flylow’s in-house Surface membrane and a durable 150-denier plain-weave face fabric. And while the Surface’s breathability is nothing to write home about, Flylow balances it out with inner and outer leg vents. You do see a bit of cost-savings in the details—we wish Flylow had put a snap at the top of the fly rather than a button, the pocket layout is simple (although completely functional), and the liner isn’t the premium soft tricot you get with pricier designs—but the Chemical pants are overall a great value.
Flylow advertises the Chemical pants as having their “relaxed” fit, which was spot-on with our experience. In fact, they were so “steezy” that our tester chose not to wear them in the backcountry, citing that the bagginess would get in the way while boot packing, climbing, and skinning. And with an 80/20 resort/backcountry designation, we think the pants’ inner leg vents are superfluous and add unnecessary bulk. But the Chemical is nevertheless a great pairing for downhill-oriented backcountry skiers and resort-goers who want a 3-layer hardshell pant without having to pay the Gore-Tex tax.
Step aside with your relaxed freeride vibes, old school is back with the Alpha LifaLoft’s trim-fitting, flared-leg experience. But performance is fully modern with high-quality in-house waterproofing and warm yet low-bulk insulation.
Step aside with your relaxed freeride vibes, old school is back with the Alpha LifaLoft’s trim-fitting, flared-leg experience. But performance is fully modern with high-quality in-house waterproofing and warm yet low-bulk insulation.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer Helly Tech Professional
Insulation
Synthetic
Fabric
Stretch polyamide
Pros
Cons
If you’re going for a traditional resort-skier look, check out the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft Pants. In contrast to the baggy, relaxed style that many modern skiers have adopted, the Alpha LifaLoft Pants have a noticeably trimmer fit. Even on our long and lean tester, the pants (which actually say “fitted” inside the waistband) hugged his thighs and only fit over his boots when unzipped at the hem, giving them a bell-bottom-like appearance. Sure, this style isn’t for everyone, but it’ll appeal to a certain demographic.
Take note: There’s more to the Alpha LifaLoft Pants than just fit. With Helly Hansen’s premium Helly Tech Professional membrane and lightweight but warm LifaLoft insulation (made in conjunction with PrimaLoft), they’ve got a lot going for them. The baffled fill feels akin to a sleeping bag and provides more warmth than most insulated pants, yet still manages to be fairly low-bulk. And while the soft polyester shell doesn’t inspire the same amount of confidence as more rigid Gore-Tex alternatives, we’ve overall been very impressed with Helly Tech Professional and trust it to provide protection in all but the most extreme conditions. For more, read our review of the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft Pant.
For hard-charging resort skiers or big-mountain freeriders, the Lofoten pants are just about the best money can buy—they’re durable, protective, fully featured, and stunningly high quality. But due to their heft and bulk, we hesitate to recommend them for serious uphill travel.
For hard-charging resort skiers or big-mountain freeriders, the Lofoten pants are just about the best money can buy—they’re durable, protective, fully featured, and stunningly high quality. But due to their heft and bulk, we hesitate to recommend them for serious uphill travel.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
3-layer Gore-Tex Pro
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
200D
Pros
Cons
Over the years, we’ve come to think of Norrøna as the Norwegian analog to British Columbia’s Arc’teryx. Their products are built to handle the worst mountain weather and they don’t shy away from quality at all costs. Norrøna’s most premium pant, the Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro features Gore-Tex’s “most rugged” Pro membrane along with a thick 200-denier shell fabric, which translates to incredible protection for burly storm skiing. And with a high breathability rating and massive side vents that extend past the knee, they’re astute at dumping heat, too.
But while they sound like a backcountry freerider’s dream, we think Norrøna went a bit too far with the Lofoten’s storm-proofing. A zipper follows the circumference of the waistband at the top, which is meant to integrate into a zip-on bib (sold separately). If you don’t opt for the bib, this zipper just hangs out awkwardly. Along with the bulky waist cinch, there’s simply a lot going on at the waist. Our tester always had to make sure his base layer was tucked in to avoid chafing, and opted against wearing the pants with a backpack (that’s right: despite the Lofoten’s great combination of protection and breathability, he didn’t want to wear them in the backcountry). And to top it off, while the pants’ massive front pockets are super handy for storing a phone and snacks, Norrøna did not include an integrated tether for an avy beacon. For more, see our review of the Norrøna Lofoten Pro Pant.
The Environ is a durable and reliable 3-layer resort pant with a non-polarizing fit and large side vents. It's a bit pricier than similar alternatives, but the build quality is excellent and the pants should stand up to a lot of use.
The Environ is a durable and reliable 3-layer resort pant with a non-polarizing fit and large side vents. It's a bit pricier than similar alternatives, but the build quality is excellent and the pants should stand up to a lot of use.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
3-layer PeakProof
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
150D polyester
Pros
Cons
Though not a well-known name outside the Mountain West, Jackson Hole-based Stio offers a full-fledged collection of outdoor gear for everyone from casual enthusiasts to serious rippers. It’s a Patagonia-esque brand—small, gritty, and built from the ground up by real-life skiers and climbers—and falls just below heavy-hitters like Arc’teryx and Norrøna in terms of performance and build quality.
The Environ Pant is Stio’s 3-layer resort pant. It features a super tough polyester shell and in-house PeakProof waterproof membrane, which gets the job done in most conditions but isn’t as trustworthy as Gore-Tex. Although the Environ Pant uses the same 150-denier shell fabric as the Environ jacket, we found that the pants felt lighter and more flexible. And while it doesn’t have as much mobility as you’d get with a stretchy ski pant, it’s nevertheless a near-ideal weight and feel for a resort pant. The vents are noticeably long (15 in. vs. the more common 12 in.) and easy to operate with gloves on, the hand pockets are lined with fleece, and the large thigh pocket expands to hold bulky items (and also includes a beacon clip).
A few notes on fit: Stio advertises the Environ as having a casual shape that’s “not too tight and not too baggy.” Our tester (who likes a relaxed-fitting pant) thought the Environ was boring—“rad dad” vibes, in his words—but on the other hand, it’s the kind of non-polarizing fit that many skiers are looking for. And you can dial it in at the waist, with both integrated velcro adjustments and the built-in belt (which you could also remove by undoing a line of stitches at the back). For more, see our review of the Stio Environ.
The Powderbound is your standard entry-level insulated ski pant. The fit isn’t super refined, the waterproofing will get overwhelmed in truly wet conditions, and the inner thigh vents are small, but for casual resort skiers they get the job done at a lower price point than most.
The Powderbound is your standard entry-level insulated ski pant. The fit isn’t super refined, the waterproofing will get overwhelmed in truly wet conditions, and the inner thigh vents are small, but for casual resort skiers they get the job done at a lower price point than most.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer Peak
Insulation
40g synthetic
Fabric
Nylon
Pros
Cons
REI’s brand-name products are a great one-stop shop for value, and the Powderbound Insulated Snow Pants are a case in point. Nothing about these pants is flashy—the insulation is bulkier than average, the colors aren’t particularly exciting, and there’s a host of money-saving tactics employed in the design, including shorter-than-average inner thigh vents and small, ill-placed pockets (our tester’s phone annoyingly dug into her thigh while sitting on the chairlift). But the Powderbound pants still get the job done for casual skiers who only get out a few times a year, and the built-in insulation makes it easy—on most days, you can just throw them on over base layer bottoms and be perfectly comfortable on the slopes.
We don’t recommend the Powderbound for particularly wet conditions (REI’s Peak membrane is no substitute for Gore-Tex and only the critical seams are sealed), and we’ve heard a lot of reports of their crotch seams failing. The fit is also unrefined and the built-in waist adjustment is easily maxed out, which means some people will need to add a belt to their ski kit (never something we want to recommend). But at $159 (and often found on sale) the Powderbound Insulated pants offer great value, and we love the comfort of their plush taffeta liner compared to the more rigid 3-layer hardshell pants we’re used to wearing. For more, read our review of the REI Powerderpound Insulated Pant.
From Patagonia, this is a simple backcountry-oriented bib with thin and stretchy materials that breathe well and move with you. We weren't blown away by the fit, and the feature set is really bare bones (it’s even lacking a beacon tether).
From Patagonia, this is a simple backcountry-oriented bib with thin and stretchy materials that breathe well and move with you. We weren't blown away by the fit, and the feature set is really bare bones (it’s even lacking a beacon tether).
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Backcountry
Waterproofing
3-layer H2No
Insulation
Uninsulated
Fabric
50D stretch polyester
Pros
Cons
The Patagonia SnowDrifter Bib is purpose-built for backcountry skiers, with a noticeably simple design and lightweight and stretchy 50-denier polyester that’s designed to move and breathe. Above the belt, Patagonia opted for a pliable softshell upper that offers all the benefits of a bib without doubling up on burly waterproof materials underneath your ski jacket. And with a relatively trim fit that bucks the relaxed, baggy trend, you can be sure you’re not schlepping any extra weight with you on the skin track.
The SnowDrifter’s simple aesthetic is a big contrast to the bells-and-whistles style of many bibs and will appeal to many backcountry users. But there are a few things we’d improve upon: The side zippers could be a lot longer (they’re more like hip vents than thigh vents) and there’s no dedicated tether for an avalanche transceiver. What’s more, some users might want a few more pockets. And it’s important to note that these bibs aren’t our first choice for heavy resort use or wet storm days—the non-Gore-Tex construction and thin fabrics won’t hold up as well as burlier hardshells. For more, read our review of the Patagonia SnowDrifter Bibs.
One of the most affordable pants on the market, the Bugaboo can save casual skiers some hard-earned cash. But the waterproofing is not reliable, the insulation is bulky, and the feature set is noticeably trimmed down. There are much better budget options.
One of the most affordable pants on the market, the Bugaboo can save casual skiers some hard-earned cash. But the waterproofing is not reliable, the insulation is bulky, and the feature set is noticeably trimmed down. There are much better budget options.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Best for
Resort
Waterproofing
2-layer Omni-Tech
Insulation
60g synthetic
Fabric
Nylon
Pros
Cons
The Columbia Bugaboo V Insulated is the most affordable ski pant to make our list, checking in at just $120. It’s obviously in a different league than most alternatives, with Michelin-Man vibes and the undeniable feel of a budget pant, but it gets the job done for casual skiers who only get out a few times a year. The shell fabric is notably durable—more akin to burly canvas than a sleek outerwear material—yet it’s still flexible and relatively soft, and you get a ton of insulation to guard against the chill. But the bulky insulation will impede movement, there are no thigh vents to dump heat, and we wouldn't want to push these pants in wet conditions: It won’t take much moisture to overwhelm the shell fabric and Columbia’s Omni-Tech membrane.
A lot of budget ski pants tend to go with standard hand pockets instead of thigh pockets with horizontal zips. These pockets are inherently less practical for sitting on a chairlift (it’s hard to avoid the pinch points caused by a cell phone or energy bar), and cause the pants to flare out at the hips, which isn’t exactly the look most skiers are going for. And the Bugaboo doesn’t hide its other cost-saving tactics: The reflective liner looks cheap, you get snaps at the hem rather than a watertight zipper (and no scuff guards), and the insulation is bulkier than any other pants we tested. But for just $120, they still pack in a ton of value for occasional skiers who get out in cold and dry conditions. For more, read our review of the Bugaboo V.
The Storm Shift is a premium Gore-Tex pant for resort skiers, with a durable yet flexible shell fabric, soft liner, large pockets, and super refined fit. Two-layer pants don’t always exude quality, but Patagonia's A-list offering is about as good as it gets.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Appealing to the backcountry crowd, these pants are noticeably lightweight and flexible and have several touring-oriented features, including a low-profile waist belt and a dedicated avy-beacon pocket. But the build quality is a slight step down from premium brands.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
For hard-charging resort skiers or big-mountain freeriders, the Lofoten pants are just about the best money can buy—they’re durable, protective, fully featured, and stunningly high quality. But due to their heft and bulk, we hesitate to recommend them for serious uphill travel.
Weather Protection
Warmth
Comfort
Breathability
Durability
Sustainability
Arc’teryx Fissile ($700): Max Warmth, Max Price
For those who run cold—and have a pretty penny to spare—Arc’teryx may have just the solution for you. The Fissile is their new highly insulated resort pant (it comes in a jacket too), filled with PrimaLoft synthetic. If you’ve worn Arc’teryx gear before, you know that the finish and fit is hard to beat, and the Fissile is no exception. We think there’s an ideal user for the Fissle: A downhill-only skier who lives in a frigid region and loves a premium product. But it’s not an especially versatile pant—you’ll be looking for a thinner pair on mild-weather days—and $700 is a tough pill to swallow.
In terms of competition, there isn’t a whole lot at this end of the market, but the Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated (the same model as our top overall pick, just insulated) is a high-quality resort pant for $250 less. The Helly Hansen LifaLoft also fits a similar bill, without quite the polish of the Storm Shift, for $375. We’re not going to argue with the Fissile, just whether the high price makes it a practical choice for most people.
Patagonia Stormstride ($449): A Streamlined Backcountry Option
The Patagonia Stormstride checks a lot of boxes for backcountry use: lightweight and breathable materials, an athletic cut that moves with you, and full waterproofing for wet snow or if conditions take a turn. Its feature set is similarly dialed, with only the basics for storage (two thigh pockets) and vents that run the length of your thigh for dumping heat. The thinness of the fabric (40D) means it won’t seal out the cold especially well, so we’d leave the pant at home on most resort days. But we think the Stormstride deserves a spot on backcountry goers’ short-list as a do-all option. For more, read our review of the Stormstride Pant.
Our overall rating takes the product’s full picture into account: price, build quality, performance (based on intended use), durability, sustainability, and more. On the high end of the rating scale are standout jackets that put it all together better than most, whether they’re the crème de la crème (like the Patagonia Storm Shift) or budget designs that offer a savvy combination of price and performance (the REI Co-op Powderbound, for example). If you ask us, most skiers should be aiming to purchase a jacket with an above-average overall rating (4 or higher)—there’s simply little reason not to. That said, ski pants with lower overall ratings are still notable enough to have made our list; for various reasons, these might be of interest to skiers with specific design preferences or those who get out only a few times a year.
Staving off the elements is one of a ski pant’s most important roles—and some models do the job better than others. Some provide uncompromising protection against brutal winter storms, raging wind, and wet snow, while others are better suited for calm and clear weather or cold temperatures when moisture is less of a concern (cold temps mean cold snow, which sheds from your pant’s shell more readily than wet snow or rain). If you’re a fair-weather skier who only leaves the lodge in bluebird conditions, you can get away with a pant on the lower end of our weather protection scale. On the other hand, maybe you like to get out no matter the conditions—rain, sleet, or snow—or perhaps you’re a backcountry skier who needs to be prepared for volatile mountain weather. In this case, aim for a score of at least 4 or 5.
Highly protective against the worst mountain weather. These pants feature relatively thick shell material, premium membranes (often Gore-Tex or similar), reliable DWR finishes, and watertight zippers.
Vulnerable to sustained moisture. Budget ski pants with cheap shell fabrics and proprietary waterproofing, or stretchy pants that prioritize breathability over weather protection. On the low end are budget pants with critically taped seams (i.e. those at the seat and knees).
Ski pants vary widely in terms of the warmth they provide, from non-insulated shell pants to heavily insulated models designed for frigid conditions. The choice is a matter of personal preference and depends on factors like your ski style, the climate where you’ll be skiing, and your body’s cold tolerance. For backcountry skiers and resort skiers who like to hike to untouched terrain, it’s an easier decision: If you’re working up a sweat, you will want a non-insulated pant.
We love the extra warmth of insulated ski pants on a cold winter day, but it’s worth noting that they’re inherently less versatile. For this reason, our strong preference is to wear shell pants (like the Black Diamond Recon Stretch) and add warmth with layers instead. When temps are in the teens, we’ll wear a thermal-weight base layer bottom; in even colder weather we’ll tack on a second base layer or a fleece pant. In warm spring weather, you can get by with a thin base layer bottom or even shorts. In sum, you can customize a lot more for specific conditions with a shell pant and the right assortment of layers. On the other hand, if your insulation is built into your pants, you have far fewer options.
Chart-topping warmth for skiers who run cold or those who consistently get out in the mid-teens or below. Too warm for mild conditions.
Lightly insulated; enough to cut some chill. Some will find these to be a nice balance between bulky highly insulated and non-insulated pants.
Uninsulated. Thick 3-layer pants get a 1.5/5 due to the added warmth wind-resistance of their robust shell fabric.
How a ski pant performs in inclement weather is of course a primary purchasing consideration, but comfort is also a sneakily important factor. The standard construction of ski pants can make for a really rigid shell, which feels super stormproof but isn’t always the most inviting layer to put on. Nowadays, manufacturers are playing with stretch-woven shells and knit backers to make ski pants softer, more pliable, and overall cozier to wear. Many of these designs are also super breathable and move well with the body, which helps boost comfort even more. Of course, comfort is purely subjective—for example, some people’s idea of comfort is completely correlated with the feeling of being fully protected—so be sure to reference each product’s write-up for a deeper understanding of our rating.
Incredibly comfortable. Look for stretch-woven shell fabrics (often on the thinner side) or heavily insulated pants that feel like stepping into a sleeping bag. These pants often tend to give a lot of attention to fit (including patterning that mirrors the contours of your body—also known as “articulated patterning”—and availability in a wide range of sizes).
Moderate comfort, generally due to fit concerns (as in the case of the Arc’teryx Sabre’s short rise) or cumbersome components. Often the materials aren’t as high quality in this range.
The bottom end of the comfort range is rare as even most entry-level ski pants are decently comfortable, but some are too heavy, have fit issues, or are constricting. If a ski pant hits red in comfort that should be a red flag.
When the body works hard—whether from charging downhill or slogging uphill—it builds heat. If the heat doesn’t have an avenue to escape, it will cause you to sweat, get wet (and then potentially cold), and be overall quite uncomfortable. If you're a resort skier who sticks to groomers, you likely don’t need to be too concerned with breathability. Chairlift rides offer a great opportunity to cool down between runs, and you’re probably not building too much heat on the downhill. If you find yourself overheating, it’s more likely that your pants have too much insulation or you need to remove a layer (or open your thigh vents). But for hard-charging resort skiers and those who venture beyond the ropes, breathability should be a strong factor in your purchasing decision.
At 5/5 are softshell pants or hardshell/softshell hybrids, which we don’t recommend for resort use. At 4/5 are uninsulated, 3-layer shell pants with relatively thin face fabrics that often include a bit of stretch and a moisture-wicking knit backer. Look for large outer thigh vents and membranes such as Gore-Tex, H2No Performance Standard, and AscentShell.
Decent breathability for active resort skiers. Two-layer shells or thick 3-layer shells with proprietary membranes.
Sub-par breathability, only recommended for resort skiers who get out in cold weather. These are insulated pants that are built to trap warmth.
One way to save money and reduce waste is to purchase durable products: If you buy right the first time, your ski pants could last you multiple seasons (or even decades) of hard use. The good news is that ski pants—compared to rain pants and hiking pants—are a remarkably durable breed, meant to hold up against sustained exposure to the elements and around abrasive objects like ski edges, chairlifts, branches, etc. The vast majority are decently long-lasting, although there is a lot of variability in terms of fabric toughness and the quality of construction and materials.
Super-durable fabrics and high-quality construction, ideal for heavy resort use. Pants with this score can handle a ton of use and abuse and emerge looking good enough to tell the story back at the lodge.
Mid-range resort designs or backcountry-oriented pants with thin shell fabrics. Models in this range generally wear down more quickly than top-ranked pants and are more susceptible to abrasion.
Very poorly built ski pants or extremely thin backcountry pieces.
Our sustainability rating for ski pants takes into account nine different criteria. On the product level, we’re looking for recycled or Bluesign-approved materials, PFAS/PFC-free durable water-repellent finishes, and Fair Trade Certified production. On the brand level, our criteria include whether the company has a dedicated resale or recycling program, uses recycled or reduced packaging, monitors greenhouse gas emissions, and publishes an annual impact report. Ski pants with a high sustainability rating meet a number of these criteria, while those with a lower sustainability rating might meet none or just a few. We also consider the degree to which our criteria are met; for example, 10% recycled materials is not the same as 100% recycled materials. Note that not every sustainability effort by a brand or product fits neatly into our categories. In these circumstances, we may increase or decrease a rating based on these factors. You can find details on these factors in the sustainability drop-down under each product above.
These pants are among the most sustainable on the market and earn our Better Trail Certified distinction. They often meet most of our sustainability criteria for this category.
These pants are a good, middle-of-the-pack option for sustainability. They often meet about half or more of our criteria for this category.
These pants are the least sustainable and have significant room for improvement. They usually only meet about a quarter or less of our criteria.
The outermost layer of fabric that serves as the pant’s first line of defense against both precipitation and wear and tear.
A pant’s first line of defense against moisture is its outer shell fabric (usually either nylon or polyester) and durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. Most of the time the shell fabric is rigid, but sometimes it’s woven in a way that adds a little stretch. With a good DWR finish—a treatment that causes moisture to bead up and roll off the fabric rather than soaking through—both rigid and stretch-woven fabrics do a great job keeping water out, although woven designs will be slightly more absorbent as the DWR inevitably wears off over time. As a result, pants with rigid shells will often score higher in our waterproofing metric and are a slightly better choice for those who frequently get out in wet conditions.
In addition to the type of outer shell fabric, the thickness of that fabric is also worth considering. Manufacturers state the thickness of fabric in terms of denier—the thinnest pant on our list is the Outdoor Research Skytour Bib (40D x 65D), while some use 200-denier or thicker materials. A thicker fabric won’t necessarily keep out more moisture (that’s primarily the job of the waterproof membrane), but it does add a surprising amount of assurance: You simply feel more protected (picture a metal roof vs. a rain tarp—both keep water out, but offer a totally different experience). Second, thicker shell fabrics are inherently more durable, which is important for those who want to get a lot of life out of their pants.
Durable water-repellent finishes are a hot topic right now. Up until recently, harmful perfluorocarbons—also known as PFCs—were a primary ingredient in just about every waterproofing treatment—DWR finishes, ski waxes, waterproof membranes, etc. As the industry moves away from these “forever chemicals,” traditional waterproof materials are taking a real hit. Manufacturers are struggling to find a sustainable replacement that’s equally effective (along with waterproofing, DWR finishes help preserve fabrics against oil and general wear and tear), so you’ll surely be hearing more about DWR in upcoming years. For now, the best solution we can offer to boost and preserve your pants’ waterproofing is to wash them regularly (better yet, wash them with specialized detergent like Nikwax’s Tech Wash) and reapply an aftermarket DWR treatment like Nikwax’s TX.Direct Spray-On.
Laminated to the inside of the shell fabric and responsible for the bulk of the pant’s waterproofing. An ideal waterproof membrane prevents water from entering but allows air to escape from the inside out.
Waterproof membranes are laminated to the inside of the shell fabric and serve as the primary defense against moisture. The most notable membrane is Gore-Tex, which has been around for over 50 years and is so distinguished that it has become practically synonymous with waterproof/breathable outerwear. Most premium ski pants feature Gore-Tex, but it’s no longer the only reliable waterproofing technology: In-house efforts like Outdoor Research’s AscentShell and Patagonia’s H2No Performance Standard offer similar performance and are generally available at much lower price points. The quality of protection does diminish as you get into the budget category—membranes like The North Face’s DryVent and Columbia’s Omni-Tech are more vulnerable to wetting out in consistent moisture like you might get on storm days or during serious backcountry travel.
Waterproof membranes are kind of a miracle material—the most high-end technologies do a great job guarding against heavy snow and rain while still allowing air to pass from the inside out. This is the essence of breathability, which is an important factor to consider for backcountry skiers and hard-charging resort skiers. The premium technology needed for air permeability is one of the first things to go with a budget membrane, but the good news is that most recreational resort skiers don’t generate enough heat to need top-notch breathability. Simply opening up the thigh vents can usually get the job done.
Waterproof seam tape covers the holes created by stitching and provides a final seal against wind and moisture.
Seam taping is applied to the interior of the waterproof membrane and is the finishing step in a ski pant’s waterproof protection. Most ski pants feature full seam taping, which means that every line of stitching is covered with waterproof tape to keep moisture from passing through. This is easy to spot on a 3-layer pant, but is obscured by the liner and/or insulation on a 2-layer design. Some of the most entry-level pants are taped only at the “critical” seams, which generally refers to those that are most vulnerable to moisture, such as those on the knees or butt.
In order to protect the waterproof membrane, pants have either a hanging liner (2L) or a liner affixed directly to the membrane (3L). This construction has implications on price, breathability, bulk and weight, and more.
There are two main styles of construction used in waterproof pants: 2-layer and 3-layer. Two-layer pants use a hanging liner (generally made of mesh or taffeta) to protect the waterproof membrane from wear and tear and your skin’s oils. Three-layer pants affix a sleek liner directly to the waterproof membrane.
The most obvious difference between 2- and 3-layer pants is cost. Two-layer construction is often seen in mid-range and entry-level ski pants, while 3-layer pants comprise the premium end of the market. But there’s a lot of performance distinctions, too. Two-layer construction gives up a lot of breathability with the extra piece of fabric and adds a significant amount of bulk and weight as well. As a result, we only recommend 2-layer pants for resort skiing. On the other hand, 3-layer pants’ more breathable and streamlined design makes them our top recommendation for backcountry and slackcountry-goers. And in terms of comfort, we’ll leave it up to you: Some skiers will like the plush feel of a 2-layer pant’s taffeta liner, but most 3-layer pants are lighter and feel sleeker overall.
For more on this topic, see our article Ski Jacket Construction: 2-Layer vs. 3-Layer.
Insulated ski pants use synthetic fill; a higher fill weight denotes a warmer pant.
Some ski pants feature built-in insulation, which gives you an extra dose of warmth for those particularly frigid winter days. Synthetic and down fill are the two most common insulators in outerwear; manufacturers almost always use synthetic insulation in ski pants given that it’s more breathable than down, less lofty, and more suitable for wet conditions (when down gets wet it loses its insulating powers). To learn more about insulation, check out our article on Down vs. Synthetic Jackets.
A pant’s listed fill weight (measured in terms of grams per square meter) gives you an idea of its warmth: 40-gram fill is thin and provides only light insulation, while 80-gram fill is thick and warm. As you move into the higher numbers, the insulation generally gets thicker and bulkier by nature of its added weight, although premium designs stay decently streamlined with more efficient fill that provides more warmth for less weight and bulk. Some pants also only feature insulation at the knees and rear, which offers a lot of value for cold chairlift rides without adding a ton of bulk.
Pockets might be an afterthought for consumers, but they’re what you end up using most.
It’s easy to overlook pockets when deciding on a ski pant, but we think they’re an important consideration. Most ski pants have hand pockets or thigh pockets, and some put a pocket on the butt, too. If you wear your pants on the baggy side, pockets can hold items like a smartphone without restricting movement or resulting in pressure points. But if you like snugger-fitting pants, storing rigid items on the front of the leg can result in a lot of pinching, especially when you’re bending low into a turn or sitting on a chairlift. In this case, a pocket on the side of the thigh is a better bet, or opting for a design like the Norrøna Lofoten GTX Pro, which features thigh pockets that protrude from the standard silhouette. Finally, if you ask us, we find butt pockets to be fairly useless on ski pants.
A few more things to think about when considering a pant’s pockets: Do they have large enough pulls to accommodate your bulky ski gloves? If you’re a backcountry skier, is there a sewn-in beacon-compatible pocket with an included tether? (We generally see this feature in 3L shell pants like the Outdoor Research Skytour and Black Diamond Recon Stretch). And: Do you think you’ll spend a lot of time without a ski jacket on? If so, your pants’ storage is of greater consequence.
These hem features keep snow out of your boot and promote durability.
The vast majority of ski pants include both scuff guards and gaiters at the hem. A scuff guard is a rigid and very durable piece of fabric placed at the instep, which is one of the pants’ most vulnerable points in terms of wear and tear. On the inside of the cuff, the gaiters are an extra piece of fabric with an elasticized hem, which extends over the boot to keep snow out when hiking or in case of a wipeout. Some gaiters will even include a slit for a ski boot’s powerstrap, which allows you to adjust your boot without pulling the gaiter up and down multiple times a day. Finally, we sometimes see pants with a zipper and an extra flare of fabric at the hem, which allows it to fit easily over bulky or unbuckled ski boots.
Like a ski jacket’s powder skirt, this system helps eliminate the area of vulnerability between the jacket and the pants.
Many modern ski pants feature a series of snaps near the waist belt, which match to snaps on the corresponding ski jacket. This is called a jacket-to-pant attachment system; along with a powder skirt, it’s a method manufacturers use to mitigate the vulnerable space where the jacket and pants meet. But while a jacket-to-pant attachment system does an excellent job keeping out flying snow and wind, we’re not totally sold on it for a few reasons.
First off, if you want to use this system, you’ll have to purchase a matching jacket and pants—which is a bit limiting. Second, we don’t love how the snaps look when not in use: If we’re out jacket-less on a spring day or hanging out in the lodge, the snaps are clearly visible on the pants and detract from a clean look. And finally, like powder skirts, the time it takes to attach and detach the system means that most skiers won’t use it on all but the stormiest of days.
Pop open your thigh vents if you need to dump heat or encourage airflow.
If you’re skiing on a warm spring day or slogging up the skin track and need a way to dump some heat, thigh vents are the answer. Almost every ski pant has this feature: Some are on the inside of the thighs, some are on the outside, and some ski pants (like the Flylow Chemical) have both. We vastly prefer outer thigh vents to those on the inside of the legs, which add bulk where you don’t want it and generally don’t encourage as good of airflow (due to being in a more sheltered place).
We find ourselves using thigh vents all the time, both in the backcountry and at the resort. Zip these puppies open, and you can release warm air and encourage airflow around the legs. Close ‘em up when you’re headed downhill or if the wind gusts get too cold. Most vents are about 12 inches in length, but longer designs offer even more ventilation and are great for backcountry use. And it’s also worth paying attention to the construction: Most entry-level and mid-range pants will use flaps to protect the zippers, while higher-end designs instead use sleek water-tight zippers. It’s also nice to be able to open the vents without removing your gloves, so look for glove-friendly zipper pulls, too.
A passive, embedded unit that can be picked up by a specialized detector in the event of a search.
Recco reflectors are everywhere these days: in ski jackets and pants, ski helmets, and even ski boots. These are small, passive units that emit a small signal that can be picked up by a Recco detector in the event of a search and rescue. Unlike beacons, they require no batteries, no toggling on or off, and no upkeep—they’re permanently embedded in the pants. Recco reflectors can be a game-changer for in-bounds scenarios when you might not be wearing a beacon, but they’re no substitute for a real avalanche transceiver: They have a much smaller range and are only identifiable by a specialized detector.
Sizing is an important factor to consider before purchasing ski pants. In general, ski pants are sized similarly to other outerwear—meaning that if you typically wear size-medium hiking pants, you’d fit into size-medium ski pants. But that’s only one piece of the equation. Many skiers—perhaps the majority—prefer their pants to be on the baggy side, for reasons of layering, style, storage (it’s way more comfortable to store a phone in the pant’s thigh pocket), and freedom of movement. If this sounds like you, a good rule is to size up one full size from your standard size (if you’re typically a medium, purchase a large).
It’s also important to pay attention to how manufacturers describe their pants. For example, Trew Gear advertises their Eagle Pant Primo as having a relaxed fit that provides ample room for layers along with full range of motion. They even go so far as to say that if you prefer a slimmer fit or are in between sizes, you might want to size down. On the other hand, a pant like the Patagonia SnowDrifter Bib features a regular fit that we found to be fairly trim for the size. With that particular bib, we would want to size up to get a proper fit.
Long story short, fit and sizing are big topics for ski pants and it’s important to both a) know what general style you’re aiming for (regular, trim, or baggy) and then b) discern from manufacturer jargon whether the pants are sized in a particular way. With both pieces of information, you’ll be able to decide if you want to stick with your standard size or go up/down.
The world of ski pants has a pretty wide price spectrum. You can start as low as the Columbia Bugaboo IV Insulated for just $120, although we prefer the REI Powerbound Insulated for $159, which we think offers a nice step up in quality at what still is a very reasonable price (and they get a 4.5 out of 5 sustainability rating, which is a nice bonus). At the top end, a high-end pant like the Norrona Lofoten Pro runs a whopping $649. That’s a performance ski pant for hard chargers who need or want all of the high-end materials and features.
The right answer always comes down to your expected use cases—and budget, of course. For resort skiers, and especially those who tend to get out on the weekends and aren’t getting 40 days a season, there are a number of quality options in our gear guide above. You can sort by “Price: Low to High,” and the top four or five pants all should do the job for most people and conditions. In addition, we've done a deep dive on the topic in our article on the Best Budget Ski Pants. Moving into the mid-range, you’ll get even better weather protection, breathability, and durability. Ski pants like the Patagonia Storm Shift, our top overall pick, should last for more seasons of hard use than a budget model, and will feel more streamlined and performance-oriented when you wear them. And for hard chargers, premium ski pants can be worth the cost. A model like the Arc’teryx Sabre is lightweight, highly weather resistant, breathable, and has a robust feature set.
If you frequently ski in cold locations like Wyoming or the East Coast—or if you just tend to run cold—you’ll be keeping a keen eye on warmth when making your ski pant purchasing decision. In our gear guide above you can sort the products by “Warmth,” with the Helly Lansen LifaLoft winning out, and a number of other cozy insulated options below (also of note: our top pick, the Patagonia Storm Shift, comes in an insulated version). From there, your base layer will have a significant impact on how toasty your legs will feel on the mountain, so choose wisely. A thick merino wool base layer, combined with an insulated ski pant, should offer just about all the warmth you’ll want on the mountain, and likely too much on warmer days. That’s when you can dial back your baselayer or open up some vents—usually located down the thighs—to dump heat.
This is a question we love. Patagonia has the reputation of being the most (or one of the most) sustainable outdoor gear brands, but our detailed analysis puts that to the test. For ski pants, our team of dedicated sustainability experts researched the category top to bottom, decided on criteria at both the product and brand levels, and then evaluated all of the ski pants in our gear guide (and more) based on these criteria. In the end, Patagonia did indeed come out on top with three ski pants receiving perfect 5 out of 5 sustainability ratings and our Better Trail Certified distinction. Those are the Insulated Powder Town, Storm Shift, and SnowDrifter Bibs. From there, a number of other brands are making excellent strides on the sustainability front, including REI, Norrona, Arc’teryx, and more. You can “Sort By: Sustainability” in our gear guide above, and every product on Better Trail gets a full sustainability analysis and report.
Ah yes, what about bibs.
We think ski bibs are pretty awesome. Their cool factor is high these days, and the options are endless—there are almost as many ski bibs available as there are ski pants. They come in a range of colors, build qualities (everything from budget to super premium), and constructions (including insulated and non-insulated varieties). And most are available in a vast array of sizes—the Flylow Baker Bib, for example, comes in six regular sizes and three inseam lengths—which is great news as their full-body design makes them trickier to fit.
Bibs also do a great job solving the age-old problem that powder skirts and jacket-to-pant attachment systems are trying to get at—closing the gap between the jacket and the pants. With a good bib, you can eliminate all the faffing associated with these systems, while getting full coverage that leaves very little room for snow to creep through. Another thing we love about bibs is their storage. Not everyone loves to keep items in their pant pockets—as we mentioned above, this can cause pinch points if your pants are on the regular-fitting to snug side. But a bib opens up your options with one or more (some bibs have three or four) chest pockets in addition to storage on the legs.
So what are the downsides to bibs? The most obvious is that they make bathroom breaks a chore, particularly for some women. Many bibs have rear flaps or side zippers that extend low enough that you can create a back hatch, but it’s still a series of zippers, snaps, and awkward reaches. Second, bibs can overdo the coverage—in theory, by doubling up waterproof fabric on the torso you create unnecessary bulk and hamper breathability. But in practice, we’ve had very little issue with the bib-jacket combo being too bulky or heat-trapping while resort skiing, and often wear them in the backcountry, too. To avoid the unnecessary heat and bulk of doubling up on a waterproof material at the chest, we’ll swap out our ski jacket for a light windbreaker or softshell jacket on the skin track.
Most of the pants listed above are hardshells, meaning they’re completely waterproof from waist to hem. Some skiers—particularly backcountry-goers—will instead opt for a softshell pant or a hybrid design that includes both hardshell and softshell fabrics. Unlike the fortress-like nature of hardshell fabrics, softshell fabrics forgo a waterproof membrane and use stretch-woven material to encourage breathability, freedom of movement, and comfort. As a result, they’re a great choice for dry conditions and the demands of uphill travel, but give up the protection you need for true storm days. We don’t have any true softshells on our list above (and don’t find them very useful for resort use), but they’re a nice addition to every backcountry skier’s quiver.
The “hybrid” term refers to ski pants that partner softshell and hardshell fabrics, giving you the best of both worlds. We see this on pants like the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Pants, which places a waterproof hardshell where you need the protection, and more breathable and stretchy softshell everywhere else. The combination is nearly ideal for the demands of ski touring in favorable weather, keeping you ventilated during the uphill while still offering decent protection for deep powder or sloppy corn. But like standard softshell jackets or pants, we don’t recommend wearing a hybrid in stormy or wet conditions.
Some of the ski pants on our list have a bit of mechanical stretch woven into their shell, which allows them more “give” compared to standard non-stretchy alternatives. These designs move and breathe well with your body and are generally more comfortable than rigid hardshells. But while we love wearing stretchy ski pants, which include staff favorites like the Outdoor Research Skytour and Black Diamond Recon Stretch, they do come at the cost of overall protection: The woven fabric is more likely to absorb moisture in sustained wet conditions, and it isn’t fully impervious to heavy winds. As a result, they’re not our top recommendation as a daily driver for season-long resort use. But for fairweather days both at the resort and in the backcountry, there’s a lot to love about stretch-woven pants.
Whether you’re wearing insulated or shell pants, you’ll want to layer something underneath—ski pants are not built for next-to-skin wear. Your best bet is to start with a base layer, which works to both wick sweat and keep you warm. Synthetic base layers are the most affordable and certainly get the job done, but they’re not as warm as wool alternatives and they tend to retain body odors, even between washings. On the other hand, merino wool is our top pick for winter: It’ll cost you more, but it’s warm, cozy, and can be worn day in and day out without generating too much stink. For more on the materials debate, check out our article on Merino Wool vs. Synthetic Base Layers.
Both synthetic and merino base layers come in various weights—you can choose between light, mid, and thermal-weight bottoms depending on conditions and your ski pant’s level of insulation (if any). You could also opt for a ski-specific ¾-length base layer bottom, which is a fun option that helps to mitigate excess bulk underneath the ski boot. Finally, in mild conditions, shorts might be your best bet.
If you’ve opted for insulated ski pants, a base layer will likely provide sufficient warmth. But if you’ve got shell pants or are skiing in particularly cold temperatures, you may want to tack on a fleece or synthetic insulated bottom, too. Fleece is relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and cozy, and a great go-to for most skiers. On the other hand, synthetic insulated pants are pricier, but they’re generally warmer and look a lot cooler for standalone use. The Patagonia Nano-Air Pant is one of our favorites: it offers the sensation of wearing a sleeping bag below the belt (without the excess bulk) and is nice to wear on cold days.
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